OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Rick Petfalski, Mayor
(262) 679-5675
rpetfalski@cityofmuskego.org
July 22, 2020
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MUSKEGO, WI – I want to address citizens of Muskego who want an order in place or an ordinance requiring individuals to wear masks while in public. Unlike suburban communities in Milwaukee County, Waukesha County communities do not have their own health departments. I have been advised by legal counsel that communities who do not have their own health department or health official, cannot issue any health related orders or ordinances. If such an order were to come, it would have to come from the Waukesha County Health Department.
As I have stated in the past, absent of such an order, you need to do what you as an individual feel most comfortable with. If you are concerned about contracting COVID-19, you need to avoid situations that you feel may put you at risk. If you can not avoid these situation, I recommend wearing a N95 mask, as those masks, if worn correctly, will reduce your risk from contracting COVID-19. Information about Waukesha County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic may be found on the county’s website www.waukeshacounty.gov/COVID19 and on social media accounts. Waukesha County is also offering resources for businesses and residents to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 through the “Stay Safe to Stay Open” campaign. More information is available at www.waukeshacounty.gov/safeopen. I understand that this is a topic that can bring out strong emotions to people on both sides of this debate. I ask that no matter which side you fall, please try to respect others choices in this issue. This includes businesses that make the business and health choice that they feel is best for their customers and their businesses. Thank you.
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